
Glasgow/The Lighthouse Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Rising proudly by the river, the Lighthouse isn’t just a beacon—it’s a time capsule. With its weathered stone and sweeping views, this 100-year-old tower has guided ships through fog and now guides souls through reflection. Every step up its spiral stairs echoes with the rhythm of Glasgow’s past.




















Everything you need to know about The Lighthouse
Near The Lighthouse in Glasgow, Holiday Inn Glasgow City Centre is a top choice, just a 10-minute walk from the landmark. This modern hotel offers free Wi-Fi, well-appointed rooms, and excellent access to nearby attractions like Glasgow Central Library and Buchanan Street Shopping Area. Convenient metro connections make it easy to explore the city.
For a more luxurious experience, consider The Grand Hotel & Spa, a historic building with elegant interiors and a premium spa. Its central location allows guests to enjoy both cultural immersion at The Lighthouse and relaxation in a refined setting—perfect for travelers seeking comfort and charm in Glasgow.
Yes, Holiday Inn Glasgow City Centre is ideal for families, offering spacious family rooms with amenities like cribs, play areas, and child-friendly activities. Located just a 10-minute walk from The Lighthouse, it’s perfect for parents and kids exploring architecture and design together.
Nearby attractions such as Glasgow Science Centre and riverside parks provide safe, engaging spaces for children. The hotel also provides 24-hour front desk service and offers a "City Explorer Package" including guided tickets and souvenirs—great for creating lasting memories during your family trip to Glasgow.
From The Lighthouse, it takes just 5 minutes to reach Glasgow Queen Street Station on foot. From there, taking the Subway (underground) to the city center takes only 8–12 minutes, with trains running every 5 minutes—making it the fastest option.
Alternatively, bus routes such as 37, 39, and 51 serve the area and connect directly to George Square, West End, and Buchanan Street shopping district. For convenience and savings, use the Glasgow Smartcard or a mobile ticketing app to purchase passes instantly and avoid queues.
The Lighthouse hosts regular exhibitions on architecture, graphic design, and digital art, plus interactive workshops. Don’t miss the monthly Night Walks, which offer a captivating after-dark tour showcasing the building’s innovative lighting and structural details.
Nearby, the Design Exchange features pop-up markets and designer talks, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind local crafts. Photography enthusiasts can join Lighthouse Photography Tours, guided sessions focused on capturing architectural textures and skyline views. These experiences deepen visitors’ appreciation of Glasgow’s vibrant design culture and inspire creative engagement with the city.
Near The Lighthouse in Glasgow, Holiday Inn Glasgow City Centre is a top choice, just a 5-minute walk away. This modern hotel offers spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi, and 24-hour front desk service. Its central location provides easy access to the Glasgow Museum, Royal Scottish Concert Hall, and shopping districts like Buchanan Street. Conveniently located near a subway station, it’s ideal for travelers exploring the city or visiting nearby attractions. Guests can also attend weekend design exhibitions and art talks hosted at The Lighthouse, immersing themselves in Glasgow’s vibrant creative scene.
The easiest way to reach The Lighthouse from Glasgow city center is by taking the subway to Glasgow Queen Street Station, then walking about 10 minutes. Alternatively, bus routes 101 or 107 stop directly at "The Lighthouse" with a journey time of around 15 minutes. Cyclists will appreciate the safe bike lanes leading to the site—perfect for eco-friendly travel. Use the official apps from Glasgow Subway or First Bus for real-time schedules and route planning. For convenience, taxis take approximately 8 minutes and cost £10–£15, making them ideal for those with luggage or seeking a direct ride.
The Lighthouse hosts rotating exhibitions showcasing international design, including industrial design, graphic arts, and interactive media. Every autumn, it becomes the hub of Glasgow Design Week, drawing creatives and visitors worldwide. Nearby, the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) frequently features thematic shows blending historical context with contemporary expression. After touring, enjoy traditional afternoon tea at Café Lighthouse, savoring locally baked treats amid a stylish, artistic setting. Guided tours are often available during exhibitions, offering deep insights into the stories behind each piece and the evolution of modern design.
Holiday Inn Glasgow City Centre serves a daily buffet breakfast featuring fresh pastries, continental sausages, local cheeses, and hot dishes, with options for vegetarians and allergen-sensitive guests. For authentic flavors, head to The Gilded Owl, a hidden gem café known for its expertly roasted coffee and inventive brunch menu—try their smoked salmon toast and avocado parfait. Another option is Buchanan Street Food Market, offering diverse street food ranging from Thai curries to Scottish nut pies. All venues accept cash and digital payments, catering to varied traveler preferences.
The Lighthouse is highly family-friendly, offering a dedicated children’s trail kit with interactive games and design challenges that spark curiosity in architecture and creativity. Wide corridors and elevators accommodate strollers easily. Just a 15-minute walk away, Glasgow Children's Museum hosts science experiments and parent-child workshops. Nearby Kelvingrove Park features expansive lawns and playgrounds, perfect for relaxation and outdoor play. The area is safe, well-maintained, and rich in educational value, making it an ideal destination for family trips.
Yes, you can rent bikes through Glasgow Cycle Hire at locations near Buchanan Street and Kelvingrove Park entrance. A recommended route starts at The Lighthouse, follows the scenic River Clyde Greenway southward past Glasgow Science Centre, then heads back via Buchanan Street, covering about 6 km—ideal for beginners. Enjoy riverside views and city skyline vistas along the way, with a pit stop at The Lighthouse Café for refreshments. Rental options range from 1 hour to 24 hours, priced between £2 and £10, with mobile HopeGoo and instant pickup for maximum flexibility.
See what other travelers say about The Lighthouse

Staying at Argyll Hotel was a delightful surprise—true Scottish charm in every detail. The design elements really capture the local spirit, and despite having a bit of character from its age, everything is clean, functional, and well-maintained. I was especially impressed by how spotless the bathroom tiles were—whitewashed and gleaming, which says a lot about the attention to detail. The room had good heating and a handy electric kettle, perfect for brewing a morning coffee. They even provided a generous selection of coffee and various hot drinks—so thoughtful! The location is excellent, just a short walk from the subway and close to city attractions. Overall, this stay exceeded my expectations. It’s cozy, practical, and offers great value. I’d definitely come back and recommend it to anyone visiting Glasgow.

Staying at Maya's Glasgow Holiday Homes was an absolute delight. The apartment is perfectly located—just a short walk from the subway station, making it super convenient for getting around the city. I loved how close it was to so many great restaurants; from cozy local pubs to international cuisine, there’s something for every taste right outside my door. The space itself was clean, well-maintained, and had a lovely, homey feel. It’s rare to find such a perfect blend of location, comfort, and value. I’d definitely book this place again on my next visit to Glasgow.

Staying at Hampton by Hilton Glasgow Central was an absolute delight! The room was spotless, comfortable, and well-appointed—immediately made me feel at home. What truly stood out was the location: right outside the train station, making it super easy to explore Glasgow and nearby attractions without any hassle. I asked the front desk for recommendations on how to get to a few key sights, and they went above and beyond—checked multiple routes, suggested the most efficient options, even gave me timing tips. Their friendly and proactive service made a big difference. It’s rare to find such a well-located, clean, and thoughtfully run hotel in a busy city. Highly recommend this gem for both business and leisure travelers.

Staying at Moxy Glasgow Sec was a great experience! The hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the train station, making it super convenient for travelers arriving by rail. Public transportation options are nearby, so getting around the city is easy and hassle-free. While there aren’t many dining spots right outside—just one McDonald’s—it’s not a big issue since most of us don’t spend much time in the immediate area anyway. What really stood out was the front desk staff—they were friendly, helpful, and always ready to assist with local tips or travel advice. The room itself was clean, modern, and well-equipped with everything we needed. The bed was comfortable, and the amenities were thoughtfully provided. Overall, it’s a smart choice for a fun, no-frills stay in Glasgow with excellent value for money. I’d definitely book here again.

The hotel's location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Glasgow, just a short walk from major attractions and public transit. The staff were incredibly friendly and always eager to help, whether it was recommending local spots or assisting with travel plans. Breakfast was a highlight: abundant, fresh, and delicious, with a great mix of hot and cold options. From the warm welcome to the comfortable room, every detail felt thoughtfully done. It’s rare to find such a central, well-run hotel with such a welcoming atmosphere—definitely my go-to choice for future visits to Glasgow.

My stay at Ibis Styles Glasgow Centre George Square was absolutely excellent—comfortable, convenient, and highly recommendable. The room was spacious with a great shower, and everything in the room felt well-maintained and thoughtfully designed. Its location is perfect: just a short walk from the train station and right next to the bustling market and shopping area, making it easy to explore the city on foot. One standout feature? The on-site dining is open until 3 AM—perfect for late arrivals like us. We checked in quite late and still enjoyed a warm meal, which made the whole experience much more relaxing. The staff were incredibly efficient, friendly, and helpful throughout our visit—they went the extra mile without being asked. The bed was comfortable, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. Overall, this hotel delivered on every front: comfort, convenience, and hospitality. I’d definitely come back and would recommend it to anyone visiting Glasgow.

Staying near Glasgow University? This hotel is a perfect choice! The room was surprisingly spacious—three of us easily unpacked two 28-inch suitcases without feeling cramped, and the luggage storage service made our arrival and departure super smooth. Located just steps away from campus, it’s ideal for students or visitors exploring the city. There’s a convenient supermarket and several great dining options within walking distance, plus a peaceful park nearby where I enjoyed a relaxing evening stroll. Everything you need is right at your doorstep. The location, comfort, and value are outstanding. If you’re looking for a stress-free, central base in Glasgow with easy access to everything, this place delivers every single time. Highly recommend!

Staying at Embassy Apartments was a wonderful experience, especially since we were looking for a place with a private kitchen—perfect for our trip. The location couldn’t be better, just steps away from the Botanic Garden, offering peaceful views of lush trees and a scenic riverside path that’s ideal for morning walks. The staff at reception were incredibly friendly and helpful—our first contact was a lovely lady who answered all our questions with patience and warmth. Her kindness made a big difference in how welcoming the stay felt. From the comfort of the apartment to the thoughtful details around the property, this place truly stands out. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Glasgow.

Staying at Argyll Guest House was a solid choice if you're looking for a no-frills, budget-friendly option in Glasgow. The price is incredibly competitive—especially considering the location and cleanliness. I didn’t expect much beyond a comfortable place to sleep, and it delivered exactly that. The room was small but tidy, with all the essentials and a good night’s rest. It’s well located near public transit, making it easy to explore the city without hassle. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, upgrading to a higher-floor room offers better views and slightly more space—worth considering if you want a little extra comfort. Overall, this place exceeds expectations for its price point. Perfect for travelers who value simplicity, cleanliness, and convenience without breaking the bank.

Staying at the Holiday Inn Express Glasgow - City Ctr Riverside was a fantastic experience. The hotel is perfectly located right in the heart of Glasgow, just steps away from the river and all the city's main attractions. Walking around town or catching a bus was incredibly convenient. The front desk staff were exceptionally helpful—they allowed us to check in early without any hassle, which made our arrival much smoother. The room itself was spacious and well-equipped with everything we needed. What truly stood out was discovering the complimentary ice machine and microwave available in the lobby—something I’ve never seen before at a hotel. It’s such a thoughtful touch for guests who want to prepare snacks or refreshments on the go. Simple but practical, and it really added to the overall comfort. Highly recommend this hotel for both business and leisure travelers.

Staying at the Ibis Glasgow City Centre - Sauchiehall Street was a great experience overall. The hotel is modern, clean, and quiet, located on a slight incline which adds a bit of character to the location. It's very convenient for getting around—just a short 10-minute ride from the train station, or about 15 minutes by foot via the airport express bus stop. While walking up and down the slope with luggage can be tiring, the route is well-marked and passes through a lively part of the city. The room itself was comfortable, spacious, and equipped with everything you’d need for a relaxing stay. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the value for money was excellent. Despite the minor effort required to reach the hotel on foot, the overall experience was outstanding. I’d definitely recommend this hotel for anyone visiting Glasgow.

The location couldn’t be better for families with lots of luggage—right next to the central station makes getting in and out a breeze. That said, it’s also close to a few bars, so there can be quite a bit of nightlife activity at night. It was generally safe, but on one occasion my family and I were walking back after buying water when some drunk people started shouting at us and asking for a lighter—definitely an unexpected moment! Still, the hotel itself was excellent overall. Clean rooms, great staff, and super convenient access to public transport. Highly recommend for travelers who value location and comfort.
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